I have both RD5 and Carrara but have never used either of them. I got them when back when wanting to learn to model - well I am wanting now to get started but which app should I learn. I got Carrara (after RD5 - because it was suppose to be the update/replacement). But a lot of folks are still with Rd5 and I wonder if there is a reason. Second I use Poser mostly and want to learn a modeling program that will go hand in hand with that. Like importing Poser figures in to get better renders etc. Any suggestions, thoughts, comments, sneers, jeers, and giggles, are welcomed. Rob

Thanks. Wasn't there a patch for Cararra at one time? If so, did it fix anything of significance and is it available anywhere - I checked Metacreations site and found the up for sale/no current support message. Bummer! Maybe I should just consider investing in another 3D program instead! :o(

I can speak as to why I'm still with RDS 5.5. I got into 3D with RayDream 3D. Didn't have the money to upgrade to Carrara when it replaced RDS. But, now that RDS is an orphan, I was able to upgrade to RDS 5.5 -- the end of the RayDream line. It's an awesome program with lots of great features, and an interface I was already familiar with. Now that I have enough money to upgrade to Carrara, I'm holding off until I know that it'll be supported. As for advice -- if you have both programs, I'd suggest learning Carrara. Of the two, it might have future versions, so there'll be improvements. If you're wondering whether or not it's a viable program, just look at the work posted in the Carrara / RDS gallery. Both packages can produce some amazing results. If you don't know 3D work at all, either would be a good way to get your feet wet. No two programs have the same interface, and RDS's is a bit funky, but if you get into the program, principles you learn using one will apply to any other program, even the "big boys," like Maya, Lightwave, or Max....

Good to know info. Thanks Azchip. Off to browse the Gallery.